"We cannot talk about sovereignty without transformation": the CNCR's cry of alarm

Senegal's food sovereignty necessarily depends on the development of processing units, the promotion of local products, and greater involvement of women in nutrition policies. This was the plea made by Abdou Aziz Badji, an agro-pastoralist, speaking on behalf of the National Council for Consultation and Cooperation of Rural Communities (CNCR), this Saturday in Thiès.

For Abdou Aziz Badji, Senegal must strengthen its vision of food sovereignty and better take into account the agricultural model advocated by farmers' organizations. "We cannot talk about food sovereignty without processing units. We must grow what we eat and eat what we grow," he argued.

According to him, the processing of agricultural products is an essential link in ensuring the preservation of surplus production under good conditions and its valorization. He also believes that women must occupy a central place in nutrition policies, given their role in food production and the processing of local products.

Beyond production and processing, Mr. Badji emphasized the importance of communication in promoting food sovereignty. He particularly deplored the prominence given to imported products and dishes in advertisements broadcast by Senegalese television channels, especially the public channel, to the detriment of local products.

He believes this situation discourages local consumption habits. He therefore calls for greater promotion of local products in the media to encourage Senegalese people to favor domestically produced goods.